When to Move an Olive Tree From a Pot to the Ground

Time Frame

• The decision to move an olive tree from a pot to the ground is largely dependent on the size of the tree and the container in which it is grown. Olive trees that remain in a container for too long become root bound and stop growing because the root system has no more space to expand. Olive trees transplanted before this problem occurs display more vigor and are more successful after transplantation.

Size

• Olive trees are often purchased from nurseries in containers that range in size from 4-inch pots to 1-gallon containers. Trees in 4-inch pots should be less than 2 feet tall and those in 1-gallon containers should be no more than 4 to 5 feet in height. If the tree is nearing those maximum dimensions for the pot size, transplant it as soon as possible. Trees that exceed those sizes have been growing in the container too long.

Transplanting

• An olive tree that has been kept in a pot too long and has become root bound may still be planted, but is likely to display stunted growth in the earth and refuse to grow for weeks or even months. Threes that are developing show new growth at the end of shoot tips. If a gardener is planting multiple olive trees, space them at least 20 feet apart to allow for the mature size of the tree.

Considerations

• The planting hole for an olive tree should be the same size as the pot, allowing room for any circling roots on the specimen to be untwisted or cut apart. This should be done gingerly, disturbing the root ball as little as possible. The original soil should be placed back into the hole with no potting mix or fertilizer added. It is important that the roots begin to adapt to the native earth. Weeds should also be controlled, with none allowed to exist within a 3-foot diameter of the young olive tree.